Victoria University, Australia - The Start Of A Great Career

As the primary educational institution in Melbourne's western region, Victoria University offers world-class courses, research and engagement activities that are locally relevant and globally significant, finds Ivor Vaz

A multi-sector institution with excellence in teaching, training, research and scholarship, Victoria University (VU) offers higher education, as well as qualifications in vocational education (TAFE) and short courses. Its learning pathways enable students to move from a certificate course through to an advanced diploma, degree, or PG qualification by coursework or research. VU has over 55,000 students enrolled at its local campuses and international sites. It operates primarily through its campuses in Melbourne's city centre and western suburbs. In addition, it delivers courses at its partner campus sites including seven locations in China, three in Singapore, and one each in Sydney, Hong Kong, Malaysia and India. Rhys Williams, Associate Director, International Business Development, Victoria University, hits the nail on the head when he pinpoints VU's three defining characteristics that make it unusual among educational institutions in Australia. "We're a dual sector university - we offer technical and further education, but we also provide undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees. Second: in both sectors, we pride ourselves on the employability of our graduates. All our programs are designed very closely with industry, and graduate employment outcomes are very good. Third: despite being a young university, VU has developed an excellent research reputation in areas like sports science, tourism, sensor technologies, water, economics and engineering." Besides, VU has purpose-built learning environments, the latest technology, state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, a full range of sports and recreation facilities plus plenty of space to relax and enjoy campus life. A $68 million sports science and learning commons building opened at the Footscray Park Campus this year, and a new Construction Futures facility at the Sunshine Campus, featuring a 6-Green star design, will showcase the latest in clean-technology trades training when it is completed at the end of next year. With students from over 90 countries, internationalisation is a key aspect of VU. "For 30 years, VU has had a very strong international component. About 15,000 of our enrolments are international. India is a key part of VU's plans. That applies both to Indian students coming to Melbourne to study, as well as the development of partnerships that provide the opportunity for students to study a VU diploma or degree or master program in India. Adds Rhys. "We understand that most international students come from backgrounds where two or three generations of a family would have worked very hard to fund their young people. Hence we spend a lot of time with students, ensuring they receive the skills to help them on their way. VU may not be an Ivy League University or part of the Group of 8. But what sets us apart is the practicality of our courses and the graduate employment outcomes." For further info, log on to www.vu.edu.au.